Proactive disease management practices are essential for safeguarding kokum orchards against common fungal diseases. By implementing proper sanitation measures, cultural practices, and targeted fungicidal treatments, growers can mitigate disease pressure and ensure the long-term viability and productivity of their kokum trees. Additionally, promoting overall orchard health through balanced nutrition, irrigation management, and regular monitoring contributes to the resilience of kokum trees against diseases and environmental stressors. Through careful attention and timely interventions, growers can enjoy bountiful harvests of this prized tropical fruit for years to come.

Kokum (Garcinia indica) is a tropical fruit-bearing tree native to the Western Ghats region of India. It is cherished for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor, making it a popular ingredient in various culinary dishes, beverages, and traditional medicines. However, like any other plant, kokum trees are susceptible to diseases that can hinder their growth and productivity. Recognizing and effectively managing these diseases are crucial for maintaining healthy kokum orchards and ensuring optimal fruit yield. In this article, we will explore some of the common diseases that affect kokum trees and strategies for their management.

1. Anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides): Anthracnose is one of the most prevalent diseases affecting kokum trees. It is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and manifests as dark lesions on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. In severe cases, anthracnose can lead to defoliation, premature fruit drop, and significant yield losses.

Management strategies for anthracnose include:

• Pruning: Regular pruning helps improve air circulation and sunlight penetration within the canopy, reducing humidity levels and minimizing fungal growth.
• Sanitation: Removing and destroying infected plant debris can prevent the spread of the fungus to healthy plants.
• Fungicidal Sprays: Application of fungicides containing active ingredients such as azoxystrobin, thiophanate-methyl, or mancozeb can effectively control anthracnose outbreaks.
• Cultural Practices: Avoiding overhead irrigation and maintaining proper spacing between trees can help minimize moisture retention and create an unfavorable environment for fungal development.

2. Powdery Mildew (Oidium sp.): Powdery mildew is a fungal disease characterized by the presence of white, powdery growth on the surfaces of leaves, shoots, and fruits. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and can weaken kokum trees, reducing their vigor and fruit quality.

Management strategies for powdery mildew include:

• Pruning and Thinning: Removing dense foliage and overcrowded branches promotes air circulation and sunlight exposure, inhibiting the growth of powdery mildew.
• Fungicidal Treatments: Application of fungicides containing sulfur, potassium bicarbonate, or neem oil can effectively control powdery mildew infections.
• Avoiding Excessive Nitrogen Fertilization: High levels of nitrogen can stimulate lush vegetative growth, making plants more susceptible to powdery mildew. Balancing fertilization practices can help maintain plant health.
• Regular Monitoring: Early detection of powdery mildew symptoms enables prompt intervention and prevents the spread of the disease to unaffected plant parts.

3. Root Rot (Phytophthora sp.): Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of kokum trees, leading to wilting, yellowing of leaves, and eventual plant death. It thrives in waterlogged soils and poorly drained conditions, making young kokum trees particularly vulnerable.

Management strategies for root rot include:

• Improving Drainage: Ensuring proper soil drainage by amending heavy soils with organic matter and avoiding waterlogging can help prevent the development of root rot.
• Avoiding Overwatering: Irrigating kokum trees judiciously and allowing the soil to dry between watering sessions helps maintain optimal soil moisture levels and prevents root suffocation.
• Soil Solarization: Exposing the soil to direct sunlight by covering it with clear plastic sheets can help reduce fungal populations and suppress the spread of root rot pathogens.
• Using Resistant Varieties: Planting kokum tree varieties with natural resistance to root rot can minimize the risk of disease establishment and improve overall orchard health.